It is only through a partnership between the state and business
that Russia can overcome the unfavorable economic situation and
achieve stable growth, the Russian President said at the Russian
Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (RSPP) conference on
Thursday. It is impossible to achieve that without trust, common
understanding of the nation’s strategic goals and consideration
of each other’s interests, Putin added.

It is necessary to demonstrate economic growth in the country,
which can be provided by greater freedom of action for the
entrepreneurs. That is the best way to make the Western sanctions
completely useless, the President suggests.

While Western countries are aiming to hurt Russia for its
independent stance on the peaceful resolution of the Ukrainian
crisis they have chosen primarily economic leverage. However,
Russia has an internal reserve, including the entrepreneurial
potential of Russian citizens, which will help the state not to
change its principles.

“I would like to repeat that greater freedom for businesses
is the best response to all external challenges and limitations.
Therefore, we will continue creating the most favorable
conditions for all who are ready to invest in the national
economy and industry, into the development of technologies and
the creation of jobs,” Putin was quoted as saying by RIA
Novosti.

However, he warned businesses that there can be attempts,
preventing the return of capital to Russia from abroad.
“The situation is such that alarming information is coming
from some countries and we are getting the impression that
attempts may be made to prevent the return of capital to
Russia,” RBC cited Putin as saying. This, according to the
president could be linked to limits on the use of capital that is
currently in foreign jurisdictions.